#replacement touch screen for 7 table

[zylcd]

How to clean and maintain industrial control displays?

You need to be extra careful when cleaning and maintaining industrial control displays, because industrial environments are usually more severe, with dust, oil, chemicals, static electricity, etc. Moreover, the display may have integrated touch functions. It is best to follow the correct steps to clean and maintain it in order to effectively extend its service life and avoid damage. Below, the editor will explain to you how to clean and maintain industrial control displays.

1. Preparation before cleaning is crucial: Before cleaning the industrial control display, be sure to disconnect the power supply and confirm the screen material. Prepare cleaning tools such as microfiber cloth/dust-free cloth, special screen cleaner or distilled water/purified water, air blower, etc. Avoid using corrosive cleaners such as alcohol and ammonia.

2. Correct cleaning steps are key: First, blow away the dust with an air blower, then spray a small amount of detergent on a clean microfiber cloth and gently wipe the screen in one direction. Use a cotton swab to clean the edge gaps, and finally wipe the screen with a dry, clean cloth to ensure that there are no water stains and detergent residues.

3. Daily maintenance cannot be ignored: Regular cleaning (once a week/month) is a must. Reduce the number of times you touch the screen, avoid liquid splashing, and avoid direct sunlight. Keeping the environment clean and reducing static electricity can effectively extend the life of the display.

4. Special screens require special treatment: Be more careful when cleaning touch screens (capacitive screens/resistive screens), avoid using corrosive detergents, and pay attention to strength control. It is crucial to understand the characteristics of different screens and choose the right cleaning method.

5. Avoid wrong cleaning methods: Do not use ordinary paper towels or rough cloth to wipe to avoid scratching the screen. Do not spray detergent directly on the screen to prevent liquid from penetrating. Avoid pressing the screen too hard to damage the LCD panel. Choosing the right cleaning tools and methods is the key to ensuring screen safety.

In short, regular and correct cleaning and maintenance, combined with good environmental control and operating habits, can effectively extend the service life and reliability of industrial control displays in harsh industrial environments. If you are not sure what to do, you can first refer to the equipment manual and consult the equipment supplier.

With over 18 years of expertise, Shenzhen Zhiyan Optronics Co., Ltd. (zylcdshop.com) is a trusted supplier based in China, specializing in high-performance LCD screens. We deliver tailored display solutions, consistent quality, and competitive factory-direct pricing to meet diverse industry needs.

[cremeful]

thinking about how after stack left for 7 years, you tried moving on. you find a nice man, with a stable job but your heart never felt present with him.

this man was supposed to fill the hole stack left in your heart but it was like filling a bucket with water only to realize the bucket was truly never going to be filled. He was supposed to be a replacement, distraction but he was just a warm body to hold you at night to stop yourself from sinking into darkness.

every kiss, hug, touch was nothing more than that. nothing left a mark on you like stack did. emotionally, physically and mentally.

all those nights that were supposed to be his and yours alone were never truly, stack lingered in the back of your mind constantly, it was selfish of you to think of the man who left you broken while another was trying desperately to put you back together, but stack lingered & lingered.

your partner was understanding, he knew the state stack left you in. he didn’t mind the many nights that you cried on his chest about the other man, he knew that you hated yourself for how you were feeling. he never questioned you on your feelings for him because he knew how you felt, you didn’t need to say anything.

days, weeks, months and years go by. yet you still remained the same. you still continued to grieve a life that should of been, you wished for the other life but he still said his ‘i love you’ in return of you muttering a small ‘me too.’ it was never the response he wanted or the one he hoped for but it made due.

he understood until one day stack returned.

“it took me 7 years for you too let me in your heart but it takes you just one sight of him and your his?” his voice pained it stretched raw for miles, “how is that any fair?” he questioned you, questioned the placement in your life. you wish you had a response better than “i’m sorry.”

he shakes his head, “his named whispered in our home for 7 years and all you can come up with is “sorry.” i have loved you unconditionally, devoted myself to you.. isn’t that enough?” his voice cracking, meeting his eyes you see the sadness behind them.

theres no one to blame but yourself, you didn’t mean for this to drag out for as long as it did but life has its ways of changing. you knew that the man across from you had a version of you in his head that was his alone, not tainted by stack.

“i didn’t ask for that and i’m sorry i could never fully give myself too you in the way you wanted.” you loved him. you did but not in the way you loved; love stack. he knew that but suffered in the silent hope of you getting over stack but that never happened.

“i love you, i do but” you pause, your breath shuddering before continuing. “not in the way you want me to feel or need me too, i never asked for you to stay. you could of left multiple times but you didn’t.. why?” you both knew why. yet he couldn’t say it, couldn’t come to terms with it.

he knew that you would never get over stack, he knew it when he found your diary open on the coffee table, one sentence standing out to him.

“although i wish he was here instead, the one living in his head. he just comes to visit me when im dreaming every now and then.”

he knew from that sentence alone that you were never going to be his, yet he still chose to stay. you tried to convince yourself you weren’t the blame for that.

but if you speak of the devil too many times he will appear.

there was a knock at your screen door, the man in front of you looks at the wall clock, time reading 7:00pm..strange

sighing heavily, “who could be knocking at this hour?” he questions like you had any idea. before you could answer you hear a familiar voice.

“baby! you gonna let me in or have me out here all night.?”

[mikerickson]

I worked as a poll worker for the first time yesterday

After the primaries in the summer, our County recognized that they had a poll worker shortage leading into the election this year and started putting out advertisements to bring new people in. I realized that I didn't know literally a single person in my life that had been a poll worker before and that it was something I had always taken for granted. With this looming shortage however, I decided to step up and do my civic duty because why not? After a three hour in-person training session and a two hour online training session, I was ready to go.

More under the cut because honestly some of these interactions with voters are kinda depressing:

I had only signed up to do a half-day shift from 5:15 AM to 1:00 PM because I figured I'd be wiped out and exhausted if I did a whole day. Well turns out that my replacement who was supposed to take up the evening shift never showed up, so I ended up staying. I got to the polling location (a local high school) at 5:00 AM and left at 9:30 PM, effectively working a 16.5 hour day with only a 1 hour lunch break. I'll get a $300 check in two weeks, which, hey, beats jury duty!

By law our polling center was supposed to open to the public at 6:00 AM sharp, but we were scrambling and not ready yet when the vote-before-work crowd started banging on the door. Very stressful start to the morning and we immediately had a big line that didn't dwindle down until about 7:30 AM. I unironically wish I had gotten there even earlier.

Our polling location had four districts, and each district had four workers (two to man the check-in table, one to operate the voting booths and ballot scanners, and one to float/rotate out every so often). I was paired with a man and a woman both in their seventies and a woman maybe in her mid forties, but they were all clearly uncomfortable with technology. Two of the other districts were also staffed by old people who just gave up at the first sign of a problem with a touch screen or a printer jam. I'm talking just a complete lack of problem-solving capabilities. I ended up running triple duty checking people in, making sure voters were set up in their booths properly, and doing on-the-fly tech support and troubleshooting. It felt rewarding multitasking and hearing, "get Mike over here, he'll fix it" over and over, but I kinda wish I didn't have to?

We only had two voters make a scene over the course of the entire day. During the morning rush right after opening a woman raised her voice asking why there was a line and stressing out that she had to leave to go to work soon (she stuck it out in line and then bolted out of there). Later around lunch time a guy at one of the other districts' tables shouted something like, "oh, so my dad can vote here but I can't?" He stormed out in a pissy mood shortly after, but I never got the full story of what was going on there.

I had one man who had recently moved and hadn't updated his registration with the board of elections, so his address didn't match what was on file. I explained that he could still vote if he did a provisional ballot, which is basically like a mail-in ballot that you put in a special envelope and leave at the polling station instead of taking it to a drop-off box. Apparently that was a step too far and he just said, "forget it..." and left. Seemed odd to me that he 1) physically drove to a voting location to vote and 2) waited in line to sign in, but that filling out a single sheet of paper was no longer worth it.

Once we were fully set up and getting into the flow of things most of the delays and reasons for lines were the voters taking too long inside the booths. It was basically a giant touchscreen monitor to select your choices, then you review everything one last time before printing a physical ballot. I had multiple people enter the booth and then wait about five minutes before calling for help saying they didn't know what to do. Also the second page/backside of the ballot was for the local Board of Education candidates, and this was really tripping up a lot of people. Also a staggering amount of people just did not see the giant "NEXT" arrow at the bottom right hand side of the screen. Poll workers are not allowed to enter the booth with them, so I had to do a lot of blind troubleshooting from the other side of the curtain.

Lots of men coming in with their wives and girlfriends and just waiting by the wall while the women voted but they didn't.

There was a smattering of young people, but not many. I did have to turn one girl away who recently turned 18 because New Jersey is not a same-day voter registration state. She was visibly bummed out and I felt bad about that.

Our oldest voter of the day was this ancient Polish woman who didn't speak a lick of English. Her daughter, who must've been in her eighties herself, had to sign a special permission slip to enter the booth with her mother to help. They were in there for a good 15 minutes, but luckily this was during a calm period of the day.

In terms of voter attire, we only had two Harris shirts and one Harris/Walz hat we had to ask people to cover up because that's not allowed within 100 feet of the polling station. Lots of Puerto Rico flags, and one guy had this obnoxious shirt of a coquí painted like the flag that I loved. Also had one man come in wearing a very sharp suit with the loudest red tie I've ever seen in my life who proudly shouted, "Let's make voting great again!" as he left after he finished.

One older Hispanic lady (I think she was Puerto Rican) had very broken English and had to do a provisional ballot for some reason. She was so worried she was going to do it wrong, but I walked her through it with my very broken Spanish and after about 20 minutes she was good to go. She was extremely thankful and gave me a hug.

I had one woman, maybe in her mid-forties, call me over to help when she was inside the booth. She asked, "why are there so many names?" I asked what she meant, and she started listing the down-ballot candidates in the other rows below President and Vice President. She said, "what is 'Senate'? What does that mean?" I explained to her that there were other contests to vote for, and after a telling pause she responded, "...okay..." Not entirely sure I got through to her.

One woman took her very young daughter into the booth with her and a few minutes later called me over. Her screen displayed a "USB device disconnected" error. I looked down and saw that the printer had been turned off. I asked how that happened and the little girl started laughing. Her mother was mortified, but I got them sorted out.

We had one teenager who we had to help insert her ballot into the scanner because her hands were shaking so violently. It was her first time voting and she was extremely nervous. I hope she's doing okay today.

Towards the end of the night this contractor with filthy hands comes in and he's clearly exhausted but wanted to vote anyway. We were shooting the breeze while he signed his voting authority and I said, "I bet I got you beat though, I woke up at 4:30 this morning." He looks up at me and deadpans, "I've been up since 3:30." I yielded and he laughed with me.

Our second-to-last voter of the day was some early-twenties guy who moseyed on in at 7:55 PM (polls legally close at 8:00 PM sharp) and said, "I heard this was going on today." Somehow he was registered and was able to get in and out in no time, but that was just such a casual remark to make that it floored me.

Our absolute last voter of the day was a woman who was on her cellphone the entire time trying to coax her husband - who was in his own car about two blocks away from the sounds of it - to hurry on over before we closed. I could hear him hemming and hawing over it, making some excuse. He didn't make it.

Closing the polls was equally as confusing and stressful as opening them was because there are a lot of very detailed ballot reports to print and specific zip ties with specific barcodes and serial numbers to close up the machines. We were missing a certain lock for the ballot bag that we was preventing all sixteen of us from leaving (no one can leave until all districts at the polling location are ready). Eventually I (because of course it was me) found it in a trash can; someone had thrown it out for some reason but no one owned up to doing it.

As we were leaving and all saying goodbye, some of the other poll workers joked, "see you guys in four years!" I pointed out that there are elections every year, and that in fact New Jersey has a gubernatorial election next year, and some of them basically said, "I didn't know that."

Overall a stressful but memorable day. Today I was talking to some co-workers that voted at different locations within my County (so using the same equipment I was trained on), and they were telling me stories of waiting between 45 minutes to two and a half hours at most. My location never got a line that bad, which maybe had to do with the location I got assigned, but it's also just as possible that me and one other guy around my age (shout out to Giovanni working District 27!) held our shit down and prevented that from happening.

It was a very long day that wiped me out. In a vacuum I don't know that I would want to do it again, but after seeing the incompetence of the standard ilk of poll workers and learning what was happening at other locations, I really feel like I need to. I'd rather these things be run by people like me than not.

[belit0]

Ashes of the Firstborn

Chapter 7 Also in AO3

She found it by accident. 

Or maybe it had been waiting for her all along.

Tucked behind the storage crates in the kitchen, half-concealed beneath a threadbare tatami mat- 

There was a gap. A small one. 

No larger than the width of her shoulders, and dark as pitch beyond. 

But Ivy had always been small. 

And careful.

And curious.

She pried the mat back in slow, patient movements. 

No rush. 

No sound. 

Dust clouded the air, making her nose itch, but she didn’t sneeze. 

Instead, she crouched low, running her fingers along the old wooden boards. 

They shifted under her touch, loose and softened by time. 

Pulling them away revealed a hollow space beneath the house—low, cramped, but passable.

Her heartbeat stayed steady. 

She’d trained it that way over years of survival. 

No panic. 

Just thought.

She slid through the gap, hands brushing against cold earth as she dragged herself forward. 

The space beneath the house was dry, untouched by rain, but old roots curled like skeletal fingers along the floor. It smelled of ash and damp earth.

She kept moving, careful to place her weight evenly, avoiding any creak of shifting wood above.

And then she found it: an opening where the foundation had crumbled slightly. 

Just enough for her to squeeze out, brushing loose dirt from her arms as she emerged behind the house, half-hidden by the scorched remains of a garden wall.

She rose slowly, every motion deliberate. 

No sudden movements.

The village was quiet at this hour, what little life it had pulled in toward the fires at its center. Soldiers clustered there, their conversations low and serious. 

Ivy kept to the edges, moving like smoke through the ruins.

She explored everything.

The burned-out homes still held faint traces of old families. 

The training grounds where Indra’s men sparred in disciplined silence, their strikes sharp and controlled. 

The forge, where weapons were crafted in near-darkness, the glow of embers the only light.

Her path wound further still, past the old well—dry—and the crumbling watchtowers. 

She climbed one, quick and light on her feet, until she reached the top. 

From there, she could see everything. 

The jagged edges of the village. The soldiers that moved like clockwork. 

And beyond them, the forest. 

So close. 

Too far.

Indra had claimed this place like he had claimed everything else. Burned it down and rebuilt it in his own image. 

Harsh. 

Ruthless. 

Precise.

But not perfect.

No place built on ruin could be.

Ivy memorized every path, every patrol, every weakness. 

She traced them in her mind like old songs.

And then she slipped back the way she’d come. 

Crawled through the hollow beneath the house. 

Brushed the dust from her skin. 

Replaced the tatami mat. Smoothed the floorboards back into place.

When the guards passed by the window again, they found her seated at the low table, staring out as if she hadn’t moved in hours.

Her hands were steady. 

Her breathing calm.

But her mind was already five steps ahead.

//

She hadn’t meant to stay out this long.

The sky was beginning to bruise at the edges, pale blue fading to purple.  

She should have turned back. 

Slipped beneath the house before anyone noticed she was gone.

But something drew her forward.

A low glow, different from the rest, soft and golden. 

It bled through the cracks of a door half open, the paper screen torn at the corners. 

Ivy paused. 

Her breath shallow. 

She listened.

No voices. No footsteps. Only the steady scrape of fabric against stone. A rhythmic sound, slow and careful.

She moved toward it, feet silent on the worn wooden planks of the walkway. Pressed her fingertips to the door’s edge and eased it open just enough to see inside.

At first, she didn’t understand what she was looking at.

It wasn’t a soldier sharpening his blade. 

It wasn’t a councilman bent over maps and battle plans. 

It wasn’t a prisoner chained in place.

It was a man. 

Older than she expected—his hair silvered at the temples, tied back in a simple cord. His robes were plain, but his hands were deft, skilled, drawing needle and thread through dark cloth with the kind of focus Ivy usually only saw on a battlefield.

He was sewing.

Three sets of clothing, laid out in careful lines across the floor. 

Each garment a muted shade of blue, almost black in the dim light. 

They were beautifully made. The stitching so fine it was nearly invisible—until he turned one of the pieces, revealing the red and white fan embroidered at the back.

The Uchiha crest.

Indra’s banner.

Ivy’s stomach twisted, though she wasn’t sure why. 

She had seen men branded with that symbol before.

Blood-slick armor. Firelight catching on the curve of a blade. The last breath of a dying person.

But this was something else. 

Something smaller. 

More intimate.

The clothes were for a woman. 

For her.

They were cut precisely to her measurements. 

She could see it in the line of the sleeves, the narrow waist. 

Even the length was exact—short enough not to drag on the ground when she walked, long enough to cover the scars on her knees.

The man paused in his work. Without looking up.

-I was wondering when you’d find me,- he said.

Ivy froze.

He set the needle down, smooth and unhurried. His hands folded neatly in his lap as he finally lifted his gaze.

His eyes weren’t hard like Indra’s soldiers. 

They weren’t frightened either. 

They were… tired. But steady.

-You move like a ghost,- he murmured, as if he were repeating something he’d heard long ago. -But ghosts have weight, too. You’ve left your footprints everywhere.-

Ivy straightened slowly. 

She said nothing.

The man gestured to the clothing, his fingers tracing the fan stitched into the fabric. -He told me to make these a week ago. Said you’d come. Said you’d stay.-

His voice was quiet. 

Matter of fact. 

Like he was discussing the weather, or the slow turn of the seasons.

-You don’t have to wear them,- he added, watching her carefully now. -But you’ll need them. Soon enough.-

Ivy stepped inside, her fingers brushing the edge of the doorframe as she crossed it. -Why?- she asked.

The man smiled faintly. 

Sad. 

Knowing. 

-Because this place is cold. Even in the sun.

For a long moment, neither of them spoke. 

Ivy stared at the garments again. The Uchiha crest gleamed faintly in the lamplight. 

Not a warning. 

Not a threat. 

A mark.

A claim.

She exhaled slowly through her nose. -What’s your name?- she asked.

The man tilted his head, considering. -I don’t have one anymore. I just mend things.-

Her mouth curved, sharp and dry. -People here do break a lot.-

The old man chuckled under his breath. -That they do.-

Ivy looked at the clothes again. She didn’t touch them. 

Not yet. 

But she filed away every stitch, every thread, the weight of the man’s gaze. She turned to leave.

-You’ll need them soon enough,- he repeated, and there was something in his tone this time. Something that made her stop with one foot over the threshold.

She didn’t ask what he meant.

She would find out soon enough.

[newly-edgy-anon]

I forgot what I named iy

Ashlyn struggles to get out of bed due to her Arthritis

In the quiet solitude of her room, Ashlyn Banner, a fourteen-year-old girl with a fiery spirit, lay in bed. The digital clock on the bedside table glowed 7:45 AM, but the heaviness in her limbs suggested it was much later. She squinted against the light peeking through the blinds, casting jagged shadows across her walls. Her joints protested as she reached for her phone, the screen a blur of unanswered messages from friends asking about the weekend's plans. But today, those plans were as distant as the stars outside her window.

Ashlyn's mother had left early for her shift at the hospital, a gentle kiss and a promise of a warm dinner upon her return the only things lingering from their morning exchange. Her father was working out of town, his voice a distant echo in the form of a goodbye text message. The house felt empty, its usual hum replaced by a deafening silence that seemed to press down on her, making it harder to find the will to get up. The air was thick with the scent of her mother's lingering perfume and the faint smell of burnt toast, a testament to her hurry.

With a deep sigh, Ashlyn pushed back the covers and swung her legs over the edge of the bed. Her bare feet touched the cool floor, and she winced at the sudden jolt of pain that shot through her knees. It was a sensation she knew all too well—arthritis, her unwelcome companion since the age of twelve. It didn't matter how much she tried to ignore it, the pain was always there, a constant reminder of her body's betrayal. She slowly stood, her joints popping like the crackle of a campfire, and took a moment to steady herself.

The mirror on the opposite wall reflected a girl who looked much older than her years. Dark circles lined her eyes, and her usually vibrant auburn hair hung lifelessly around her shoulders. Her skin was pale, almost translucent, and the lines on her forehead suggested a map of worries she'd carried for far too long. The reflection was a stark contrast to the adventurous spirit that lay trapped within her, yearning to break free from the confines of her condition.

Moving with the grace of someone much older than her years, Ashlyn shuffled to the window and pulled the blinds open. The morning light washed over her, revealing a world bustling with life and color. Kids her age were already out, their laughter carrying through the air as they rode their bikes, the sound taunting her. Her eyes fell to the empty chair by her desk, where her schoolbooks lay untouched, a silent rebuke to her missed days of learning and the friends she'd left behind.

Her fingers tightened around the window frame as she watched the world outside continue without her.

The pain grew more insistent, a dull throb in her knees that seemed to pulse in time with her heartbeat. Ashlyn felt her legs wobble, and with a heavy sigh, she made her way back to bed. It was a dance she'd performed countless times, a delicate ballet of pain and determination. She sat down gingerly, wincing as her weight settled on the mattress. Her eyes drifted to the crutches propped up in the corner, gleaming metallically in the light. They were a symbol of her new normal, a stark contrast to the vivid life she'd once led.

For a moment, anger flashed through her, a fiery emotion that briefly overshadowed the pain. She glared at the crutches, willing them to vanish, to leave her be. But they remained steadfast, a silent sentinel to the reality she faced every day. With a grimace, she reached for the remote control and turned on the TV, the brightness flickering in the room as she scoured the channels for something to distract herself from the ache.

The TV's chatter was a poor substitute for the conversations she used to have with her friends, but it was better than the silence. Ashlyn lay back against the pillows, her eyes drifting closed. Her mind wandered to the days when she'd run through the halls of her school, her laughter echoing off the lockers. The days when she'd dreamt of the weekends and the adventures they'd plan together. Now, weekends stretched out before her, a vast desert of solitude, filled with the ghosts of what could have been.

Her phone buzzed again, pulling her from her thoughts. She picked it up, scrolling through the messages. Her thumb hovered over the keyboard, but she couldn't bring herself to type out a reply. What was there to say? That she was trapped in her own body, a prisoner to pain and immobility? That she'd swapped playdates for doctor's appointments and school projects for pain management techniques? No, she'd keep her silence, the same way she'd keep her crutches tucked in the corner, out of sight and out of mind.

A knock at the door startled her. She tensed, her heart racing. Visitors were rare these days, especially unannounced ones. She glanced at the crutches, then back to the door, weighing her options. The knocking grew more insistent, and she knew she couldn't ignore it forever.

"Ashlyn, it's Mrs. Jenkins," a muffled voice called from the other side. "Your mother asked me to check on you. Are you okay?"

Ashlyn sighed and mustered the strength to call out, "I'm fine, Mrs. Jenkins. Just... not feeling well today." She hoped the older woman couldn't hear the tremble in her voice, the lie she didn't want to admit to herself. The knocking ceased, and she could almost feel the woman's concern radiating through the wood. But she couldn't open the door. Not now, not like this.

With a heavy heart, she lay back down, her body feeling like it was made of lead. Each movement sent waves of pain through her, and she clenched her eyes shut, willing it to stop. But it was a futile effort. The pain was as persistent as the knocking had been, a constant reminder that she was stuck, that she was broken.

As the minutes ticked by, the pain grew to a crescendo, and she felt the world spin around her. Her breath came in short gasps, and she knew she was dangerously close to passing out. This was the price she paid for pushing herself, for trying to live a life that didn't include arthritis. But she refused to give in, not today.

Her phone buzzed again, jolting her back to reality. The screen was a blur of light, but she managed to make out the words. It was her best friend, Taylor, checking in. Ashlyn felt a tear slip down her cheek. She missed her so much, missed the days when they could just hang out without planning around doctor's appointments and bad flare-ups. With trembling fingers, she swiped away the message. She couldn't face the questions, the pity, not now.

The house grew quiet once more, and Ashlyn took a deep breath, willing her body to calm down. She knew she needed to get up, to face the day, but the fear of the pain held her in its vice-like grip. She lay there, her thoughts racing, as the minutes stretched into hours. Her stomach growled, but the mere thought of moving to the kitchen was daunting. The walls of her room began to close in, each breath feeling shallower than the last.

Suddenly, she heard the doorbell chime, a sound that pierced through the haze of pain. Her mother's voice floated up the stairs, muffled by the thick silence of the house. Relief washed over her, and she felt the tension in her shoulders ease slightly. Her mother was home, and with her came comfort, understanding, and maybe, just maybe, the strength to get out of bed.

The sound of footsteps grew closer, and the door to her room creaked open. "Ash," her mother's voice was gentle, filled with concern. "What's going on? Why didn't you answer your phone?"

Ashlyn took a deep, shaky breath, "It's just a bad day, Mom." She didn't bother to hide the exhaustion in her voice. "I... I can't do it today."

Her mother's face was a mask of empathy as she stepped into the room, her eyes searching Ashlyn's. She knew the signs all too well. With a nod, she said, "Okay, honey. We'll get through this together."

The weight of the words washed over her, and for a moment, the pain receded. It was a small victory, but it was something. And maybe, just maybe, it was enough to get her through the day. With her mother's help, she managed to sit up, the room tilting slightly as she did. The pain was still there, a dull throb that seemed to resonate in every bone, but it was dulled by the warmth of her mother's touch, the solidarity in her voice.

Together, they moved through the house, her mother's arm around her waist, supporting her as she took each agonizing step. They didn't speak much, their movements a silent dance of care and understanding. It was in these moments that Ashlyn felt the love that kept her fighting, the love that reminded her that she wasn't alone in this battle.

And as they reached the kitchen, the scent of something warm and comforting filled the air. Her mother had made her favorite, chicken soup, the very scent of it seemed to soothe the rawness in her bones. Ashlyn managed a smile, a genuine one, the first in what felt like an eternity. It was a small comfort, but it was something.

Her mother helped her into a chair at the table, her movements careful not to jar her too much. She watched as her mother ladled soup into a bowl, the steam rising in a comforting embrace. The clinking of the spoon against the porcelain was the only sound in the kitchen, a stark reminder of the quiet that had become their life's soundtrack.

"Eat up," her mother said, setting the bowl in front of her. "You need your strength."

Ashlyn took a tentative sip, the warmth spreading through her like a gentle warmth from a cozy blanket. Her mother sat across from her, her eyes never leaving Ashlyn's face. In that moment, she felt seen, understood in a way that no one else ever could.

The soup helped, the warmth seeping into her, giving her the strength to consider the day ahead. She knew it wouldn't be easy, but with her mother's help, she could face it. They'd watch movies, do some light stretches, maybe even tackle a puzzle if she felt up to it. It wasn't the weekend she'd planned, but it was something.

As the afternoon rolled in, the sunlight grew softer, casting a warm glow over the kitchen table. Ashlyn's father called, his voice a welcome sound in the quiet. He talked about his work, the little things that filled his days, and for a brief moment, she allowed herself to feel like a normal teenager again, sharing stories of her own, of the shows she'd watched and the books she'd read while stuck in bed.

The conversation was a balm, easing the ache in her heart if not her joints. Her father had a way of making everything seem manageable, his voice a gentle reassurance that she wasn't alone in this.

The hours passed, the pain never fully abating, but it was a familiar companion now. And as the shadows grew longer, stretching out like fingers reaching for her, she knew the day was almost over.

Her mother helped her back to bed, tucking her in with the same care she had when she was a little girl. The house grew quiet once more, but this time it didn't feel so suffocating.

As she lay there, staring up at the ceiling, she made a silent promise to herself. She wouldn't let arthritis define her, wouldn't let it steal her weekends, her joy, her life. There was still so much she could do, so much she had to offer.

The pain was a storm she'd weather, a challenge she'd face with the same fiery spirit that had seen her through every hardship. And maybe, just maybe, she'd find a way to dance again, to run with her friends, to live the life she'd always dreamed of.

For now, though, she closed her eyes, letting the warmth of her mother's embrace lull her into a restless sleep, the promise of tomorrow a gentle whisper in the back of her mind.

Word count: 2,107

[chronotsr]

No. 5 - D2, Shrine of the Kuo-Toa (August 1978)

Author(s): Gary Gygax Artist(s): David C. Sutherland III (Cover), David A. Trampier Level range: Average of 10, preferrably party size 7+ players Theme: Underground exploration Major re-releases: D1-2 Descent into the Depths of the Earth, GDQ1-7 Queen of the Spiders

I'm almost speechless. This is the most 1e module cover to ever have 1e'd. It is perfection. The way the combat is perfectly perpendicular to the step pyramid. The bondage gear fishman who has a complete fishhead so you 100% understand he's a fishman. Lobster mommy saluting the troops. It's just….it's what dreams are made of.

So I'm already in love with this module, deeply and irrationally in love with it, before breaking the cover. If you're BORING you might prefer the later Jim Roslof cover art that's got lame things like technical proficiency. Ugh. The shit I have to put up with.

Anyway, there's a lot to talk about with D2! It's a lot of firsts for an official TSR product, and critically it's a lot of GOOD firsts.

It's the debut of the Kuo-Toa, one of the most fun groups of people in D&D! It's the first module that doesn't presume the enemy will be inherently aggressive! It's got a lot of negotiation and learning! The only good type of gnomes debuts with the Svirfneblin! This model of "alien settlement where you are not instantly attacked but you gotta learn the social rules and play along" is just the best. This will be done again in U2 and I adore U2. Yeah it's how it feels to go to a different country, especially one that doesn't speak your language, and just have everything be a little "off" compared to what you're used to, but. To me, it will always be The Autistic Experience. How well and quickly can you learn these bizarro social rules you can't intuit and what's the fewest number of whacks to the head it takes to get there? How long can you swallow your complaints when you see stuff that's obviously cruel, but the people around you don't perceive it as cruel anymore because it's The Way Things Are and they will actively defend the cruelty of it?

Ok, ok, back to your regularly scheduled program.

Gary starts off this week's festivities by telling you to be toxic to your players:

Sometimes it feels like there's three Garys in a trenchcoat and they take turns writing the modules.

So D2 starts in the cave at the immediate end of D1 and, let me derail already by saying that I really, really hate old-style hex maps. I cannot follow them -- I don't mean I don't understand how you're supposed to follow them, I mean it's nearly impossible for me to follow the diagonal to the destination. Your coordinate here is R20. Here is your map. Follow the 20 axis diagonally upward and rightward until you intersect with the R row. Can you do it?

Personally, I can't. My eye cannot follow that straight line, it will get lost in the mix of blank identical hexes and occasional interest objects. I sat here trying to follow it for 5 minutes and I couldn't do it. I need a straightedge to do it. The correct answer is that if you follow the light blue area from the bottom right towards the top left, it's the hex up and left of the fourth fully black hex you run into -- the leftmost of the two touching black hexes. I tested this against a few guinea pigs and no-one else could mange it either. Later we will admit defeat and that this axial coordinate system for hexmaps is, uh, really fucking bad, and replace it with offset coordinates (or even better, double coordinates) which more closely resemble normal cartesian coordinates, and by extension are not Eye Strain Central. They have the downside of different eyestrain (tiny font) and that you literally cannot fit as many hexes on the page, but the point of a graphic is to communicate information and the axial coordinate hexmap is bad at that unless you're playing on a huge table with like, two DM screens.

Yes this rant should've gone in D1, mea culpa. In my defense, D1-2 is, basically one module in two parts, they're not really separable.

Here's the coordinate lined out for you, since I imagine many of you have the same issue:

So, now that I have a headache trying to read, we can get to the actual text of the adventure again. Now keep in mind that max movement rate is 1 hex per 1 inch of movement for the slowest member of the party (so like, your guy wearing platemail has 60ft of movement, 10ft to the inch: 6 hexes per day). This means you could hypothetically arrive at the final location as quickly as 22/6=4 days of gameplay, 3 if no one including hirelings wore plate. That is, if you beelined to D2 by sheer luck, never got lost, never got distracted, never got slowed down, never had to take a rest day. Which is good because the food in The Depths seems questionable.

The first segment of the adventure is mostly reprinted from D1 -- random tables and maps and the like. We do get the addition of everyone's favorite early DND trope: a slavery table! And also happilly we get some goopy guys to move your eyes away from that shit:

Which, is a lot more my speed. More goopy guys. It's a roper, actually, although I frankly didn't recognize it. It looks more like the monster from Dexter's Lab? Apparently Ropers have changed a lot in the last 50 years.

So it's all random tables teasing that we're going to end up arriving at a shrine soon. There is a special entry in the back for the new Kuo-Toa and Svirfneblin, and oddly the Svirfneblin don't get a header? We don't learn much. We know that they're natural elemental summoners, that they're "natural fighters", and that they live at some unstated cave somewhere. They like their stun gas darts, they "communicate with racial empathy" (which I guess means body language?) outside their own domains, deep gnomish at home, and underworld cant when they're trading, plus earth elemental-ese. So they learn a lot as kids. They love them some traps, too, basically they're the gnomish Rambos and I love them for it.

Meanwhile, our titular Kuo-Toa get a pretty standard write-up. Driven underground, human sacrifice, raiders, like their war parties. Their priests like their mancatchers, which are based on lobster claws, they spawn in pools, they can spontaneously generate lightning by holding hands (???), are too slippery to grab, can see both infrared AND ultraviolent, can see you moving through basically any magical means, immune to poison, paralysis, charming, sleep, and are resistant to magic missile and lightning. This is, very very weird. They are wildly powerful compared to their later versions, and the only upshot is that they're readily blinded by light spells. Apparently they go insane with such regularity that they have a dedicated social role to controlling or killing the crazed? Yeah these people are a piece of work.

We get a little setpiece moment here where, essentially, there's a rogue kuo-toa who will offer you a trip across the river for 10g. He only speaks kuo-toa and he'll sicc his giant fish on you if you don't say yes fast enough. In fact, a lot of ink is spilled on this little moment, which in all likelihood will be a brief conversation and some passing of money.

Before you get into the shrine proper, some svirfneblin offer to help you in the shrine if you go halfsies on treasure (with almost that exact wordchoice).

Finally, we end up in the shrine proper, which is keyed so let us enter Keyed Mode ™️

The whole area is lit by glow-in-the-dark lichens, which is a spooky way to reveal the lobster lady idol up on the pyramid

While the party can choose to politely integrate into the crowd and play along, there's lots of little things to harass them into nonconformity. Leeches, horrifying offerings, offerings of increasing amount, having to correctly pronounce nonsense names (Blibdoolpoolp????????), holding a live lobster, it's a good bit.

You can, in fact, visit the goddess, who will give you a boon (if you give an offering) or a geas (if you don't), which also grants you kuo-toa speech and also a mark of loyalty, which is neat. You can also encounter her if you fuck around in the prince's treasure room, so the odds of meeting her are actually pretty good! Note that this is pre-"Kuo-Toa believe their gods into existence" so in this case they are worshipping a (hypothetically) permanent, naturally-occurring deity. Being that this is 1e and she is a she, she is Extremely Naked. She is later called The Mother of Lusts, which is one hell of a title.

If you fail to get the priest-prince when you meet him, he actually has a pretty rock-solid escape plan and will come back with an army. So, probably whack him if possible. I really like when antagonists have the sense to piss off and come back armed, rather than pridefully stand and die. You get the sense that Va-Guulgh is priest-prince because he plans contingencies like this, whereas other Kuo-Toa simply vibe. That being said, the Kuo-Toa are apparently not equipped for a search, so it's pretty easy to ditch them.

Sigh.

We do not have a dramatic declaration of THE END anymore, which is a terrible shame. We instead get a more reasonable "This is the end of the section."

The magic of D2 is more in the play and less in the overview. Like, look at this map:

This is a pretty naturalistic map. This is just how you'd arrange a major structure, rather than the kind of nonsense layouts you see in a lot of early dungeons. I don't put much stock in "Gygaxian Naturalism", I think Gary presented pretty intensely game-y spaces and they only seemed naturalistic by 1970s published product standards, but nonetheless he was paving the way compared to some of the silliness you got in pre-G1 modules. This map is good, I think, in that it becomes super extremely obvious to the players from the moment you enter that they extremely do not want to provoke a full alarm -- this is a shrine where you want to kill as few Kuo-Toa as you can, and as many of those as you can behind closed-doors -- it's time to straight up bail if the alarm goes off because you are not beating the hundreds of guys here if you you provoke them up front.

We end with some rust monster art, my favorite monster that I never use because I think I'd get shanked if I did. See you next time in D3!

[grimalkinmessor]

Mikalight for the ask game! :D

Hi Moon :D

AYYYY MIKALIGHT 👓🖋️🍷

when i started shipping it: Before I'd even finished my Death Note rewatch honestly—I only binge a max of six episodes a day so I didn't even remember what Mikami looked like when I started reading fics that mentioned him. Deadass I thought he had a moustache, I was so convinced in my old memories before I saw him on screen again 😭 BUT YES I read TrashKing's Composure before I finished the series again and found their dynamic there intriguing :3

my thoughts: They just bring a sort of Riza & Roy, Barty & Tom, Crim & Alessio, Aro & Jane vibe to the table that I really enjoy ✨ The Mastermind™ and their feral attack dog—Light says "Bark" and Mikami goes "At what tone, pitch, and volume; poodle or rottweiler?" and that's just SO much to play with >:3 IT'S ABOUT THE SERVITUDE 🤌🤌 THE IMAGE OF LIGHT SITTING CLEAN AND ARROGANT IN HIS THRONE AND MIKAMI STANDING PROUD BESIDE HIM COVERED IN BLOOD 😩🙏 Mikami is Light's favorite little pet and Light is Mikami's everything.

what makes me happy about them: They are soooo unwell your honor 💕 Two freak ass nerds both thinking they're more righteous than they are. Mikami could probably snap Light in half over his knee (dude is JACKED) but he won't 🥰 They're what I need when I want Light pampered and spoiled and getting everything he wants.

what makes me sad about them: THEIR DEATHS. DEAR GOD CANON DID THEM SO DIRTY, MIKAMI ESPECIALLY 😭😭 There is no dignity in death INDEED

things done in fanfic that annoy me: Honestly? (Don't hate me for this one Moon (⁠๑⁠•⁠﹏⁠•)) I don't like how often L is brought up or mentioned in Mikalight fics. Like Mikami is L's replacement in Light's heart, like he sees L in Mikami—they're literally nothing alike 😭 They both have black hair but if that's the only thing you need to be L's replacement then Matsuda would make the cut. Besides; if I open a Mikalight fic, I want the focus to be on Mikami and Light :') If I wanted Lawlight I'd have gone to the Lawlight tag instead, you know?

things i look for in fic: Mikami being obsessed and Light viscerally enjoying his obsession. That's it :3 I want Mikami to be the devoted pursuer and Light to be the deity deigning to touch him out of amusement and curiosity. I like Light in control and Mikami being super horny about it ✨

who I'd be comfortable with the ending up with: For Light, I like him with pretty much everyone lol (have that man running from his harem 24/7), though L and Ryuk are definitely at the top of the list ;3 For Mikami.... it's harder, because I only like him with other people in situations where Light isn't a factor at all, such as they've never met or Light just doesn't exist. Save for maybe Near, because I think captor/captive is always a fun trope 💫 But with Light there (and specifically in Kira Wins AUs) I tend to like him with either Matsuda or Misa, because I can see both of those relationships turning antagonistic >:3 Mikalight is pretty much the only DN ship I have that doesn't have SOME form of chafe to it, so anything else would need to be made interesting for me to ship it.

my happily ever after for them: Kira wins, Mikami uses his eyes and tenacity to become Light's right hand man, and then they spend the rest of time being righteously evil with Light directing and Mikami wielding the scythe—which he is then reward for by Light allowing him to use his mouth and hands and sometimes cock to make his Kami-sama feel good 😌💖

who is big spoon/little spoon: TOUGH QUESTION. Because if it's in a No Death Note AU and they were both,,,normaler, I'd say Mikami. But in any other circumstance I'd say Light, if only because Mikami kneeling between his legs while Light works is practically the same thing as being the little spoon when you think about it :3

what is their favorite nonsexual activity: Not to get super soft all of a sudden, but probably talking. Mikami is canonically very intelligent as well, even if I think his smarts come more from diligent study than any born-in ability like Light's—they've probably read a lot of the same books and I imagine them sitting in comfortable quiet reading together and occasionally looking up to speak their thoughts about the book aloud, which leads them into calm but intriguing discussions. When they're not being murderous psychos, I think they're both actually quite calm and content people, so things like going for a morning run, drinking coffee together, and reading in the same room are definitely their favorite moments otherwise 💗

[verrerdises]

bewitched | dark!dongheon x reader

Summary || Set in the VRVR universe, where you have been kidnapped by a man who looks eerily similar to your boyfriend...

Warnings || 16+ for kidnapping, minor language

Word Count || 1.8k

The dream you were having was wonderful and simple. You were with Dongheon, arms wrapped around each other as the two of you quietly swayed, enjoying a moment of peace. Alas, it was only a dream, and when you opened your eyes, you were met with the complete opposite. 

The warmth of your blankets were gone, instead replaced with the chill of an unknown room. You slowly sat up from the red velvet couch - you don’t remember Dongheon or any of his friends owning such a piece of furniture. Looking around, none of this seemed familiar. It appeared to be some sort of garage or warehouse. There was a long dining table in the middle; the food and decor in disarray. Behind it was a wall of screens. Most of them were turned off or only displaying static, but one showed a brown room with 7 beds, and another monitored a circular table with 7 chairs. 

Caught up in all the details, you nearly failed to observe the most crucial one – you were handcuffed. A chain was attached to the cuffs and bound to the leg of the chair. You shook your head as the adrenaline was finally kicking in. You were more so panicking because you couldn’t remember how you got here. Last thing you remember was falling asleep texting Dongheon!

Your head whipped around at the sound of metal screeching. A door opening and closing. You squinted to try and spot the figure in the darkness. The clacking of their heels echoed throughout the room, momentarily breaking through the ringing in your ears. They finally step into the light, and it was– 

“Dongheon?” you furrowed your brows. But he looked… different. Dressed up. He wore a dark striped suit jacket with a small brooch pinned to his chest. Silver chains draped along his neck, contrasting from the black turtleneck underneath. Your eyes momentarily fell to the thin belt that snaked around his waist. It proved difficult for you to pull away, but you forced yourself to meet his gaze. Your breath caught in your throat upon realizing how close he had gotten to you, and you could spot the glitter subtly shimmering across his eyes. In conclusion… he looked good.

However, there was a voice in the back of your head, a gut feeling, telling you something was off. This… isn’t Dongheon. It was unlike him to be quiet for so long. But you couldn’t just stare at him all day (well, you could, but-), so you eventually found your voice. “Um… is this like, a new thing we’re trying out, or-?”

He finally chuckled. Yet, it wasn’t a friendly one. “He was right, you are amusing.” The first words to come out of his mouth, and it was rather backhanded. He dragged out a chair from the dining table nearby and took a seat in front of you. One leg rested over the other, and he leaned back as he crossed his arms. You shifted in your seat as his eyes bore into you; you could see the gears turning in his head as he simply observed you. Curiosity twinkled within. 

“I don’t like to waste time,” he tilted his head up almost haughtily, “so, let’s get this done before your honey bear realizes you’re missing.”

You blinked feverishly. “Wait, hold on, so you’re not–?”

“Your Dongheon? Ha!” He laughed behind his hand, “No. Absolutely not… Well,” he removed his hand to reveal a chilling grin, “not yet, anyway. Almost there.” He sighed dramatically. “Only need a few more finishing touches. Although…” He rested a hand on his chest, “I’m a bit hurt to know he has never brought me up. After we’ve been through so much together…”

He paused in his rambling upon spotting your expression. “You look confused.” he hummed then leaned towards you from his chair. “Can’t fathom the thought of him withholding secrets from you?” He giggled. 

“Wh-What?” You shook your head. “N… No, he wouldn’t! We… We tell each other everything. No matter how weird.” You huffed at him, “Like him having some evil twin. He’d… He’d tell me…” You trailed off, gaze falling as realization sinked in. Why would he hide something like this…? Unless it was for your safety, but even then–

“Oh,” he clicked his tongue, “you have such a pathetic look on your face. It’s almost cute.” He leaned back again. “Let’s make this quick, shall we? Just answer some questions for me, and you’ll be back in your bed full of plushies in no time.”

Heat burst onto your cheeks at his comment. Again, it felt backhanded. You swallowed hard then turned your head away. You felt a sudden shift in the air. “Ohh, he did say you’d be a stubborn one.” You had no chance to react as he swiftly grabbed your face and forced you to look at him. Your heart pounded against your chest. His eyes were nearly identical to Dongheon’s, but this man held a cold gaze, it sent shivers down your spine. “Let’s not play this game, (y/n)... But,” his lips curled into a smile, “I think I like this spark of defiance in you. You have such loyalty to your man…” His smile quickly dropped, “It almost makes me jealous.”

His grip loosened. “Fine. Answer one question for me, and I’ll leave you with a nice parting gift.”

“Taking your kidnapped person home doesn’t count.” You scowled at him. His smile returned. He even let out a short laugh, “No, no, I’ll leave an actual gift. A token of my appreciation for your cooperation.”

“I don’t care about your gifts–”

You were silenced as he waved around your phone. “You care an awful lot about him, don’t you? And you’re toying with forces way outside your control. One phone call to him, and he’ll come running to your rescue.” He then shrugged, “As for him making it out with you, well, that’s up to you.” He finally pulled back to sit on his chair. “I know you’re smarter than you’d like people to believe.”

You rubbed your sore cheeks from where he grabbed you. Damn, he really backed you into a corner. But he was right; you care too much about Dongheon to risk his life, let alone him risking it for your sake. You closed your eyes to take a deep breath and sigh. “Okay. Fine. Whatever.” You opened your eyes to glare at him. “What’s this one question?”

His smile briefly resurfaced at your compliance, only for it to be replaced with an unamused frown, “... Why do you trust him?” He asked. Your brow furrowed. It… honestly was not the type of question you were expecting. Then again, you weren’t sure why he was asking. He seemed to understand your confusion, so he elaborated, “Your Dongheon is so… him. Why in the world would you trust someone like him? Why would anyone?”

You almost felt offended by the question. You couldn’t help but laugh a little. “Really?? The real question is how could you not!” The imposter’s confused look almost made you burst into a fit of giggles, but you held back. You sighed. “I know he might not look like it, but he’s a good person. On the outside, people may see him as totally awkward or a goofball, but he’s hard working and wants the best for everyone.” You shook your head. “He wants to see everyone succeed, and he’s always willing to work around to find solutions.”

You fiddled with your hands. “He understands when to be goofy Dongheon and when to be serious, and it’s hard to hate him, in my opinion. Watching him work, you just can’t help but view him as trustworthy.” You ended your ramble and locked eyes with the imposter again. You… struggled to understand the emotion he was conveying. He was fighting back a scowl; his lips held together tightly in a thin line. Eventually, he parted them to quietly answer, “I see.”

He raised his head to deliver a smile. “Thank you, that was incredibly insightful.” He stood from his chair to walk behind you. “I enjoyed our little chat, if I’m being honest. I suppose I’ll keep you around…”

“Huh?” You whip your head to him, “I thought you said you’d leave us alone!”

His smile remained. “That wasn’t a part of our deal. What, you don’t want to see me again? How hurtful.” A sigh, “And after I went through all this effort for you.” He held his head up smugly, and for a brief second, you were reminded of your Dongheon. This whole ordeal was something you were still struggling to understand, but it appeared as if he wasn’t going to bring harm to you. 

At least, not tonight, you hoped.

You were pulled out of your thoughts when he reached to grab your face and gently bring you closer to his own. You shuddered at his cold touch, and you could smell the cologne he wore- Dongheon’s cologne. “You’ll see me soon enough.” He hummed, “Doesn’t matter if it’s in your dreams or your nightmares…” He then chuckled softly, “Just watch, you’ll miss me, and then begin to wonder when you’ll see me again,” His voice lowered, “Just as I will with you.”

You were hardly given a chance to respond, for you suddenly felt your eyes grow heavy, and the world went dark. 

Your phone buzzed violently from the nightstand. Your head shot up from the pillows as you squinted in the morning light. All you could do was groan as you groggily reached for your phone. You answered without even checking, “Hello?” you mumbled.

“(y/n)!” Dongheon sighed in relief. “I figured you passed out last night, but then you didn’t answer this morning. I was starting to get worried–”

“Hm?” You slowly sat up. “What time is it…?”

“Definitely not morning… It’s 2 pm.”

“Huh??” You checked the time on your phone. “Damn…” you whispered to yourself then brought the phone back to your ear. “Yeah, sorry, I didn’t realize how tired I was. And then like, I had the weirdest dream–” You paused in your words. Was it a dream?? It certainly felt… real.

“A weird dream, huh? Was I in it?” Dongheon joked.

“... Actually, yeah…” You slowly answered. He became quiet for a moment before letting out an awkward laugh. “Well, if you got enough rest, you okay with me bringing you brunch? We can talk about that weird dream.”

You felt your nerves begin to melt away. “Yeah,” you sighed, “yeah, I’d love that, actually.”

“Well, good, because I’m outside your door. Like, right now. Please open up, it’s hot outside…”

You couldn’t help but laugh at his antics. You quickly hung up and crawled out of bed to go greet him. But you couldn’t get rid of that strange feeling. The dream felt like it was fading away already; the image of Dongheon blurring in your mind. When you stood up, you spotted something glimmering from out of the corner of your eye. You curiously approached it, but your stomach sank as it came into view. With a trembling hand, you raised the exact same broach you saw on the imposter Dongheon in your “dream”. 

His voice suddenly replayed in your head, like a ghostly whisper, “You’ll see me soon enough…” 

[stoopid-turtle]

BTS in Order August Pt 1

Mainly from this bilibili playlist.

The timeline for all the interviews during this period are, frankly, a mess. There are multiple interview segments taken over multiple days, with different sources having different dates, usually only 1 or 2 days apart. Without being able to read Chinese, it is impossible to get this straightened out, so I did my best. Just consider 8/7-8/9 to be a big mushy mess of interviews segments. In each case, I put things on the date I thought most likely while including the alternate date(s) in parentheses.

8.1 ggdd outside. Wen indoctrination. DD is teasing gg for how many lines he has to memorize - A crowd scene with ggdd in a row with jl next to DD and jc next to gg. Gg and DD are in their own world, chatting and smiling at each other.

8.2 ggdd. Cloud recess lectures. Jl has bag of snacks and passes it to jc. Dd points accusingly (playfully) at gg. - A bunch of the cast are eating together. Dd has gg's phone, and gg keeps giving him amused looks. Gg in black hoodie. Jc, yl, and jl. Dd in black hoodie joins later. Then jzx. After, a couple women show gg a few bags with stuff. The others are still eating behind them. When gg gets back to table, DD is gone. (So, DD was still there when gg walked back. Then the camera cuts and DD is gone while gg is at table)

8.2 outside, burial mounds era. they're filming the scene where wn wakes up. Dd disappears early on so it's gg and yb. Ah..dd is doing wire work with his guqin - Later, DD feints kneeing gg in the groin. Then a clip of both of them going nuts on the sunscreen. - Wq joins them. - They change into post-timeskip costumes at same location.

8.3 ggdd. Gg roasts DD for sending selfies to him. (Alt 7.8) - Dd retaliates by showing everyone the pouty photo of gg. (Alt 7.8) - Clip of them running in place, shot from behind. Dd steals gg's tea. Seems like the first time from gg's reaction. (Alt 7.8)

8.3 market scene with jl and ggdd. Dd and gg pass a mirror back and forth while having a convo. In between them, in the bg, are their doubles, also standing side by side. It's a funny shot.

8.4 DD helps gg climb over railing on roof. Then it rains and there's that shot of gg reaching his hand out to the rain from the roof shelter place (alt 8.3)

8.4 ggdd more of the early market scene (yin iron era) - Gg and DD are punching each other in the shoulder. - A little swordplay. Then gg tries to put away his sword but DD keeps batting his sword at gg.

8.4 gg only. Scene with wwx taking jc to get his core replaced.

8.4 evening, gg chases DD with a bug - Also filming the first rooftop fight - Romantic rooftop stargazing - Birthday countdown

8.5 DD only. The awful livestream.

8.5 gg doing wire work in a forest with a DD double. Gg's doing a bunch of fight-y stuff. - Dd appears when gg's fighting off a fake owl. - They're chatting while gg's makeup is being touched up and DD pointedly looks at the camera. I've never seen this clip, so I don't know what they're saying.

8.5 gg walking down yi city street with Lil Apple.

8.5 Market scene. Gg tells DD to smile. Dd does. The blonde ponytail guy cracks up. Dd asks for green tea. gets it. - a scene with ggdd and juniors. Gg is with juniors and DD is being a disruptive gremlin. Leaving the juniors, gg walks up to DD with an indulgent dom expression They bicker a bit, but it doesn't seem serious.

8.5 ggdd Birthday cake and prezzies!

8.6 DD in blue robes. When lwj talks to mianmian at jinlintai. Dd is rubbing his throat a lot and puts his hand to his head a few times. Might be sick. - Then DD has a scene with lhk.

8.6 ggdd post-timeskip with lhk. - Then DD and lhk back at cloud recess - Gg doing takes of the fight down the steps of the jinlintai. Lwj is a double. - Ggdd the giggly run down the stairs - In the evening, dark, gg and DD standing beside each other, talking. Assistants hold an umbrella over both of them. Bright lights and blue screen in background. Also, jin ling wandering around like he's lost. Then they film the scene where jin ling stabs wwx. Gg and DD chat between takes 8.7 yb interview gg. Cloud recess outfit. Night. There's a bit where gg interacts with an animated creature. I've never seen this. - Oh! He draws the good health rabbit!

8.7 yb interview DD. Evening. I think they're outside while gg is doing some blue screen closeups. - Oh, this is where yb says the lans are poor and DD points out his Jade pendant.

8.7 DD does blue screen wire work. then gg joins, though no wires. They're doing shots from their cloud recess sword fight. Between takes they chat, though they seem tense. Dd seems dismissive and gg seems concerned and annoyed that DD is dismissive. I wonder if they're talking about DD's health problem? I don't know when his visit to the hospital happened. (to be fair, dd doesn't know when his visit to the hospital happened either)

8.7 DD does some blue screen closeups with a wwx double

8.7 then gg and DD outside but under a tent or something with a roof. Gg is spraying DD with bug spray. Then they talk about about something. I don't know what. People off camera are giggling.

8.8 another Sina interview clip. This has the part where gg rats out DD for using his own memes. And DD says it's just in case gg wants to save them to use. (Alt 8.9) - Also I think this is the first time DD talks about gg's ability to cry on cue. Like a switch. - Also, DD looks very shy and pleased when gg says good things about him. (Leos like praise)

8.8 nighttime yb interviews with ggdd - Dd makes gg wear a cat ears headband briefly

8.9 sword fight on cloud recesses rocks. Dd gets minor injury on hand. Brats about it. (Alt 8.8) - I think this is the instigator of the spicy wontons conversation, but I've never seen a clip of that conversation so I don't know much more than that. - DD in blue robes with gg and jc. Outside. The director is walking them thru the scene where they discover the Chang massacre - Gg and DD bicker for a bit. Then they do a bro handshake. But then DD starts talking to the camera as if arguing his case. Gg laughs and protests - Jc is such a third wheel. Poor guy. - ggdd gawking at a bug bite on jc's neck (alt 8.8)

8.9 ggdd side by side in cloud recess outfits. Gg hands DD a mirror to check his ribbon. Gg shows DD something on his phone. They talk quietly for a bit. Then a kid in a red shirt comes over and gg talks to the kid while DD sits back and watches. (Alt 8.8) - Lhk is in the background reading - Then they both do a bit with the little creature that showed up in the 8.7 interviews. - Yb interviews lhk. Then DD does a Sina interview, then gg does one. But almost as soon as gg says something, DD whaps him from off camera. - ddgg sina interview with yb. Waist measuring (alt 8.8) - Gg and DD share eyedrops - A lot of official clips are pulled from this day

8.9 gg then DD on set interview (alt 7.8 or 8.7). The one on the white couch where gg calls DD a lunatic. - Gg joins DD and sits basically right on top of him. Big dom "who hits who" moment. - Also, gg pulling up his robes. Wow.

8.9 bazaar interview take 2

8.9 more filming of the Chang Manor. This time with Xiao xingchen and song lan - Jc shows gg and dd a clip of lea salonga singing reflection. Gg sings along.

8.9 Then jl measures gg's waist (alt 8.7) - Then DD and jl interviewing each other? And measuring DD's head circumference?? (Alt 8.7)

8.9 more outdoor nighttime interview where DD walks up after gg is asked about him. Gouzaizai

8.10 jiejie putting DD's wig on. Another jiejie is putting gg's wig on. Dd shows up behind him. I think DD is asking if he's eaten. - Yb shows up behind gg. Also a-yuan. - Jl goes around the room with a camera, stopping by each actor. - Then when jl is at gg, dd takes the camera. - And then - Epic makeup room brawl (alt 8.8) - After, gg stands behind DD and eats some snacks. - Then gg is with xl and jc while xl gets her makeup done.

8.10 ggdd filming a pre-timeskip scene with xxc and sl. And tied up xy. Between takes outside, gg reaches out with his sword to poke DD in the ribs. - Oh, so there's the exchange I've seen in a video that claimed jc saw a picture that "would end everything" according to the translation. Then this clip is where DD tells gg about it and jc says he knows everything, but DD tries to say he doesn't. - The implication being that jc saw some photo of ggdd (more on this in the takeaways post) - There's all sorts of conversations going around in the circle of gg, jc, dd, jgy, jl, sl, and xxc and I want to know what all of them are.

8.12 ggdd post-timeskip. Gg across table from DD. Lhk in background. Director is talking thru the scene - Then the scene where lwj walks in to find wwx waving to wn in the window. Cue flirty look -Between takes, gg says something about how handsome DD looks. Dd smacks him with his sleeve, points at the camera, and says he's just being nice since they're being recorded. Gg looks surprised by the camera. Then they bicker. - Filming yb upside down - Filming scene with ggdd and lhk outside where lxc receives the jin butterfly

8.13 gg only. Seeing things in the burial mounds with xl - Then a scene with gg and jin ling where wwx finds the curse on jin ling's leg

8.14 gg only. Nightless City. Finding the hanged bodies of the wen refugees (alt 8.6)

8.15 gg only. Scenes with the nightless city wen battle. Some wire work for gg!

[seaphoam-writes]

A Father's Duty (18/?)

A Father's Duty on AO3

Summary: An encounter with a quantum fissure leaves Picard with more responsibility than he asked for, but he'll do what he always does—his duty.

Chapter 18

After Beverly departed, Picard does everything he can to distract himself.

He moves furniture, shifting first his dining set several inches to the right so that it isn’t crowding the doorway to Louis’s room, and then the armchairs and coffee table so that they aren’t crowding the dining area.

Then, he attempts to redisperse his personal possessions—only to conclude that, both with the loss of his bookcase and the gain of a child that likes to climb, leap, and brandish foils like a musketeer, perhaps his more fragile possessions would be better off in storage.

After packing the rarest of his books and his most breakable belongings away, however, the thoughts he’d been trying to rid himself of—thoughts of Beverly’s hands on his bare stomach, mostly—remain.

The instant he’s no longer occupied those thoughts surge to the fore, and just as swiftly, his brain extrapolates, imagines what it would be like—look like, feel like—to have Beverly’s fingers dragging up his chest, through his chest hair, nails grazing his skin—

Stop.

Picard halts, somewhere near his desk. He closes his eyes, takes several deep breaths, and starts counting.

1, 2, 3…

He can’t understand it.

He can’t understand why he’s suddenly incapable of controlling himself.

7, 8…

For years, every time they touched—intentionally or incidentally—every time they embraced, every time one of them planted a chaste kiss on the other’s cheek—

10, 11…

He’d always managed to maintain his composure, to revel briefly in the physical contact, the exchange of affection, before purposefully extinguishing the flame she kindled inside of him.

Similarly, whenever a certain smile or look in her eye caught his attention, whenever he was particularly charmed by the way her hair framed her face or fell across her shoulders, whenever he admired the graceful lines and curves of her body, he’d allow himself a short bask in his adoration before reining it in and tucking it brutally away.

13, 14…

And now, for some reason he can not fathom, the barrier he’d erected around his feelings has crumbled, and all he can think about is that he would very much like to have her in the bath with him next time—

Abruptly, he sits. He has to. He sits with his elbows on his desk and his head in his hands, knuckles kneading his forehead as if to scrub the offensive thoughts from his brain.

Merde.

More than ever, he wants to give in, confess to her how he feels.

But he’s afraid.

He doesn’t know if she thinks of him the same way. It could be that all there is between them is friendship. It could be that his feelings would offend her, spoil their relationship irreparably, drive her away.

And he couldn’t handle that.

He needs her. He learned that when she returned from Starfleet Medical and he finally understood why he’d felt incomplete for an entire year.

Picard drags in a breath, forces himself to straighten. He pulls his personal computer across the desk, but he can only stare at its blank screen, his mind on that morning. Seeing Beverly with Louis, how Louis responds to her…

He knows Beverly can’t replace the mother Louis lost—and Picard wouldn’t want that for Louis in any case—but Beverly can be a mother figure in Louis’s life nonetheless, provide for Louis’s wellbeing in ways Picard perhaps can’t.

And Picard won’t jeopardize that.

It’s easy to regain control when it’s for Louis, when the focus is not his own desires, but what’s best for his son; he’s able to turn his computer on, access all Federation custody laws, and concentrate. After a few minutes, he’s even composed enough to play some background music.

He’s uncertain for how long he’s been reading when Louis trots out of his room. Louis halts just past the dining table, tilts his ear in Picard’s direction, then smiles and announces, “Chopin.”

Picard blinks. He’d been so absorbed that he hadn’t registered what he was listening to, but then he chuckles. “Very good. Can you name the piece?”

“Nocturne in E-flat major.”

Louis comes to the side of Picard’s desk, rests his hands lightly on the edge. “Papa, are you sad?”

“No, I’m not sad. Does this piece make you feel sad?”

Louis hesitates, his brow knitting.

“Computer, pause music,” Picard orders, then he leans towards Louis, reaching out to offer his upturned hands. “What’s on your mind?”

Louis slides his hands into Picard’s. “Chopin reminds me of maman.”

“Did your maman like Chopin?”

Louis nods. “She played him a lot. You liked him too.”

Picard smiles gently and rubs his thumbs along Louis’s knuckles. “I do like Chopin. But I won’t play his music if it makes you sad.”

“No, it’s okay. It…” He pauses again, frowning, and Picard can see him struggling to express his thoughts in words. “It makes me miss her, but it…reminds me of her too.”

“It makes you feel close to her,” Picard provides.

“Oui. I feel close to her.” He takes a deep breath. “I don’t mind being sad because I also feel close to her.”

Picard gives Louis’s hands a tug; Louis comes around the desk and Picard pulls him into a hug. “You can talk to me about your maman whenever you’d like,” he says. “Or your papa.”

Louis tenses, and into Picard’s shoulder he says, “Papa liked it when maman played.”

“Oh?” Picard prompts.

“When she played, he would stop whatever he was doing and come listen.”

Louis is young, but he was younger still when he lost his parents, and he very likely doesn’t have many clear, detailed memories of them—but something about that stuck, his father being drawn to his mother’s music, stopping whatever he was doing to go and listen to her…

“Your papa must have loved your maman very much.”

“He did,” Louis whispers.

Picard clutches him tighter, kisses the top of his hair, then gradually relaxes his hold and releases the boy. “Did your papa play an instrument as well?”

Stepping back, Louis hastily brushes one hand across his cheek—hiding a tear, Picard assumes—and shakes his head.

“Well,” Picard says, “I play the flute. Perhaps you’d be interested in hearing me play it sometime.”

Louis’s face lights up, like the sun reappearing after a rainstorm. “Papa, bien sûr! Can you play it now?”

“Not…not now,” Picard says. He’s never played in front of an audience—not here, at least, not as Jean-Luc Picard, and he’s suddenly quite nervous. Louis may find his performance lacking—he doubts he’s as accomplished a musician as Nella Daren. But in spite of his fear, he wants to share his music with Louis. It seems to have been an important part of Louis’s life, an interest both his parents shared, something that bound the three of them together.

(And Picard hopes, secretly, that it might encourage Louis to play the piano again.)

“How about tonight?” Picard suggests. “After dinner?”

“How about before dinner?”

“After,” Picard says firmly.

“Ok,” Louis agrees with a grin.

-/-

At 0900 hours, Deanna visits to discuss preparations for the staff meeting, and it’s at that point that Picard realizes he can’t leave Louis alone in their quarters during that time. It’s too far away should something happen. He briefly considers asking Guinan to watch the boy, before determining it isn’t worth bothering her for—not with a solution readily available.

His ready room is both comfortable and private, and it’s just on the other side of the bridge from the conference room.

Deanna, clearly having thought much farther ahead than Picard, had assumed this would be the arrangement, and came merely to suggest they remove Will from the bridge before Picard and Louis arrived so as not to risk triggering another panic attack.

Picard defers to her judgement, but Louis is dismayed by their decision.

“I want to see Uncle Will,” he insists.

“Yesterday—” Picard begins, only to be cut off by a furiously fast shake of Louis’s head and some rapid French.

“Je peux le faire. Je n'ai pas peur.”

I can do it. I’m not afraid.

Picard sucks in the breath necessary to reassure Louis that he knows Louis isn’t afraid, only to be interrupted once again, this time by Deanna.

“Captain, I have an idea.”

And so they compromise: an arranged meeting in a controlled environment. Picard will invite Will to visit his quarters after his shift to meet Louis.

“Before dinner?” Louis asks, pointedly.

“Before dinner,” Picard assures him. At a curious look from Deanna, Picard explains. “I promised I would play the flute for him after dinner.”

“Oh,” Deanna says, then asks, with interest, “Is this a…private performance?”

“Very much so,” Picard grunts.

Lips pursed to hide a smile, Deanna excuses herself with an, “I’ll see you on the bridge.”

Alone again, Picard sighs and regards Louis. Just before Deanna arrived, Louis moved Cuivre and his folded pajamas from Picard’s bed to his own.

“Are you finished with your room?” he asks.

“Oui.”

“May I see it?”

Louis nods, and Picard follows him into his room.

As Captain, he’s furnished with a replicator of higher capability than those found in most other crew members’ quarters, but it’s still not large or powerful enough to replicate anything of much magnitude, and Picard’s first thought is that he should bring Louis to the replicating center, for he sees no toys or games—indeed, Louis seems to mostly have replicated books. The bookcase is filled, save for the rolled-up piano, tucked into a corner beside the full collection of Sherlock Holmes in French.

The drawing desk appears to have received the most attention, its various shelves, slots, and trays filled with a variety of supplies. Hanging on the wall above it are a drawing of Data and the drawing of Louis’s friends from the Phoenix; upon the desk’s surface, afforded a place of honor right in the center, is the anatomy book Beverly gave him.

Perhaps we have another doctor on our hands.

It doesn’t escape him that he thought the words we and our, as well as another, and he blushes at his own presumptuousness. He diverts his attention swiftly, focusing instead on the framed photograph of Louis and his parents on the bedside table. The joy on Louis’s face in the picture is genuine; Picard wants him to smile like that again.

He looks down at Louis. “Are you happy with it?”

“Oui.”

“Is there anything else you want to put in here?”

“Non, c'est parfait.”

Picard runs his fingers once through Louis’s hair, and resolves to take him to the replicating center anyway.

-/-

With 15 minutes to spare, Picard and Louis leave their quarters for the bridge. It feels good to be back in his uniform after nearly three days out of it. Idly, he wonders what that says about him.

(He knows what that says about him.)

He’s chuckling at a joke Louis told him—

“How do you make a bandstand?”

“I don’t know. How?”

“You take away their chairs.”

—and Louis is giggling when the Turbolift halts and the doors swish open to reveal Beverly.

“Beverly!” he greets.

“Bonjour, docteur,” Louis adds cheerfully.

Beverly steps in and Picard purposely shuffles himself against the wall, so that Louis is in between them. Fortunately, his lustful thoughts remain tightly sealed away, and he’s able to enjoy watching Beverly and Louis chat without distraction.

The growing bond between them practically glows in the air, and Picard finds himself beaming and wishing the journey to the bridge would never end.

But it does, and the moment the Turbolift halts at its destination, Picard’s heart leaps into his throat. Louis hadn’t seemed concerned earlier about returning to the bridge—he was not as affected by seeing their quarters for the first time as he had been by seeing Will—but he slips his hand into Picard’s just as the doors slide open.

Picard wishes he could take Beverly’s hand, for his own comfort. He’s been with Louis in public, of course, but bringing him to the bridge feels different. Will the crew see him differently? He cannot hold Beverly’s hand, of course, but he does seek her gaze, seek reassurance that she’s with them, and he sees from her expression that she understands what he’s feeling.

It doesn’t embarrass him, that she knows he’s nervous. He feels…seen by her. She knows him in a way no one else does.

Taking a deep breath, he grips Louis’s fingers, so small, and leads him onto the bridge.

[integrating-sphere]

Abstract In industries where products are exposed to dusty environments, assessing their resilience to dust ingress is crucial. The LISUN SC-015 Dustproof Test Chamber offers a controlled setting to simulate such conditions, enabling comprehensive evaluation of a product’s physical and functional performance. This paper details the chamber’s design, operational procedures, compliance with international standards, and presents empirical data from tests conducted on various products.​ Introduction Dust can significantly impact the longevity and functionality of electronic devices, automotive components, and other equipment. Ensuring products can withstand dusty environments is essential for quality assurance and customer satisfaction. The LISUN SC-015 Dustproof Test Chamber is engineered to replicate dust-laden conditions, facilitating rigorous testing of products under controlled parameters.​ Design and Specifications of the LISUN SC-015 Dustproof Test Chamber The LISUN SC-015 is meticulously designed to provide accurate and repeatable testing conditions. Key specifications include:​ • Temperature Range: Ambient temperature plus 10°C to 50°C.​ • Metal Mesh Filter: Comprises a 50 µm wire diameter with 75 µm spacing, ensuring consistent dust particle sizes.​ • Test Dust: Utilizes dry talc powder at a concentration of 2–4 kg/m³, dispersed via free-fall to mimic natural dust settlement.​ • Timing Controls: Adjustable total test durations and vibration intervals ranging from 0 to 999 hours, with a precision of ±1 second.​ • Vacuum System: Features an adjustable vacuum range from 0 to 10 kPa and a pumping speed up to 4800 L/h, accommodating various product enclosures. • Safety Features: Equipped with leakage and short-circuit protection mechanisms.​ • Construction: The exterior is crafted from high-quality steel with a durable paint finish, while the interior, including the sample rack, is made of stainless steel to prevent corrosion.​ • Observation Window: A tempered glass window with internal LED lighting allows for clear monitoring during tests.​ • Dust Replacement Mechanism: Located at the chamber’s base, this feature facilitates complete replacement of used dust.​ • Vibration Device: Prevents dust from adhering to chamber walls, ensuring uniform distribution.​ • Control System: Incorporates a 7-inch touch screen paired with a Panasonic PLC, allowing independent control of dust blowing, vibration, and test duration.​ SC-015_AL Compliance with International Standards The SC-015 adheres to several global standards, underscoring its reliability:​ • IEC 60529: Defines degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code).​ • IEC 60598-1: Pertains to general requirements and tests for luminaires.​ • GB 2423.37-89: Outlines dust test methods.​ • GB 4208 and GB/T 4942.2-93: Specify protective casing grades for low-voltage apparatus.​ • GB 7000.1: Details general requirements and tests for luminaires.​ • DIN 40050: Relates to degrees of protection for road vehicles.​ Testing Methodology The testing process within the SC-015 involves several critical steps:​ • Sample Placement: Products are positioned inside the chamber in their typical operational orientation, ensuring they neither touch nor shield each other.​ • Dust Introduction: Dry talc powder is introduced to maintain the specified concentration, either for a set duration or throughout the test.​ • Post-Test Settling: After testing, samples remain in the chamber until all dust has settled completely.​ • Volume Considerations: The cumulative volume of samples does not exceed 25% of the chamber’s capacity, and the base area remains under 50% of the chamber’s horizontal working space.​ Empirical Data from Product Testing To illustrate the SC-015’s efficacy, tests were conducted on various products. The following table summarizes the results:​ Product Type Test Duration (hours) Vacuum Pressure (kPa) Observations Compliance with IP Standards Smartphone 8 2 No dust ingress detected; functionality intact IP6X Automotive ECU 12 5 Minor dust ingress observed; no functional impairment IP5X LED Luminaire 24 3 No dust ingress; maintained luminous efficacy IP6X Electrical Cabinet 16 4 Dust ingress in non-sealed areas; sealed compartments remained unaffected IP5X Motorcycle Instrument 10 6 Slight dust ingress; display readability and controls unaffected IP5X Discussion The SC-015 Dustproof Test Chamber effectively simulates dusty environments, providing valuable insights into product resilience. The empirical data indicates that products with higher IP ratings (e.g., IP6X) exhibit superior dust resistance. Manufacturers can utilize these findings to enhance product designs, ensuring better performance in real-world conditions.​ References (continued) LISUN. “Dustproof Testing Machine | Dust Proof Chamber” – Product specifications and operational details. • IEC 60529:1989+A1:1999+A2:2013 – Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code). • GB/T 4208-2008 – Enclosure protection rating (IP code) for electrical equipment. • GB 2423.37-89 – Environmental testing for electric and electronic products – Dust test method. • DIN 40050 Part 9 – Road vehicles; degrees of protection (IP-code); protection against foreign objects; electrical equipment. Recommendations for Use in Industry Based on the results and performance evaluations conducted using the LISUN SC-015 dustproof test chamber, the following industry-specific recommendations can be made: 1. Consumer Electronics Manufacturers of smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices should conduct regular IP6X dust resistance testing to ensure continued functionality in real-world usage conditions, particularly for outdoor users or construction personnel. 2. Automotive Components ECUs (Electronic Control Units), dashboard interfaces, and sensors used in automobiles must be tested in dustproof chambers like the SC-015 to guarantee long-term reliability in off-road or desert environments. 3. Lighting and Luminaire Industry LED lighting systems designed for tunnels, outdoor installations, or industrial environments should undergo extended dustproof testing to preserve luminosity and prevent lens degradation caused by particle accumulation. 4. Aerospace and Military Applications Devices in defense or aerospace sectors require strict adherence to IP6X standards. The LISUN SC-015 chamber ensures that mission-critical systems are not compromised due to particulate interference. Extended Test Case Example To illustrate the value of detailed simulation, the following extended case study was conducted on an outdoor surveillance camera: Parameter Value Test Duration 48 hours Dust Type Talc powder Dust Concentration 3.5 kg/m³ Vacuum Applied 8 kPa Environmental Temp 30°C Humidity 45% RH Observed Outcome Minor dust on casing, no ingress IP Certification Achieved IP6X Performance Degradation (if any) None This demonstrates the chamber’s utility in thoroughly stress-testing a product over prolonged exposure, replicating actual field use. Future Prospects and Innovations With growing demands in the fields of IoT, smart infrastructure, and autonomous systems, dust resistance becomes increasingly critical. Enhancements to the LISUN SC-015 or next-generation chambers may include: • Real-time data logging of dust penetration metrics. • Automated failure detection systems using cameras or sensors. • Multifactor environmental simulation (dust + temperature + vibration). • Remote monitoring and AI-based analysis to detect anomalies in protection levels. These innovations would broaden the chamber’s application and bring predictive maintenance closer to reality. Summary The LISUN SC-015 Dustproof Test Chamber represents a significant technological asset in the realm of environmental testing. From consumer electronics to military hardware, products can be subjected to repeatable, standardized dust exposure to ensure quality and safety. The chamber’s ability to simulate a range of dusty conditions, control variables such as vacuum and duration, and comply with international IP standards makes it indispensable. The rich feature set, user-friendly control system, and robust construction ensure its adoption across research labs, production facilities, and certification bodies. Through detailed testing and analysis, manufacturers can confidently bring dust-resistant products to market, enhancing customer satisfaction and operational integrity in harsh environments. Read the full article

[creative9blogs]

MacBook Pro Repair vs. Replacement: What’s the Smarter Choice?

Tech troubles can ruin your day. If your MacBook Pro acting up, one question always comes up — should you repair it or go for a full replacement? At Cell N Comp Repairs, we hear this daily from customers who need MacBook Pro repair in Chicago and don’t know what to do next.

This blog gives you clear info to help make a smart decision without wasting time or money. Also, we’ll share how we help with Apple Watch screen repair, iPad repair, watch battery replacement, Apple MacBook screen repair, and cell phone repair near me—all in Chicago.

When MacBook Repair Is the Right Move

If your MacBook is under 5 years old, still fast, but has a small problem, repair makes more sense.

Common Repair Situations

Cracked or flickering screen

Battery not holding charge

Keyboard or trackpad not working

Storage full or slow

Software issues after update

In these cases, fixing the MacBook costs less than buying new. And guess what? At Cell N Comp Repairs, we handle all these issues with skill and care. Our MacBook Pro repair in Chicago services are known for being smooth and stress-free.

When You Should Replace the MacBook

Sometimes, repairs don’t make sense—especially if the device is too old or repair cost is too high.

Signs You Should Buy New

MacBook is over 6–7 years old

Can’t run the latest macOS

It’s super slow even after upgrades

Cost of repair is almost same as buying new

So, if your Mac is too tired or slow, then it’s better to go new. But we always suggest bringing it in for an expert look first—we’ll tell you straight what makes more sense.

Table – Repair vs. Replacement

Factor Repair (MacBook Pro) Replacement (MacBook Pro) Cost Way cheaper, save hundreds Expensive, even for base model Time Done in 1–3 days usually Takes more time to set up new one Data Loss Risk Low, we try to keep all your data Must transfer and setup everything again Performance After Fix Like new if upgraded right Top performance with new hardware Environmental Impact Eco-friendly choice More e-waste if you throw old device

What We Repair Besides MacBook Pro

At Cell N Comp Repairs, we’re not just about MacBooks. Our Chicago techs also fix:

Apple Watch Screen Repair

Broken screen on your Apple Watch? Bring it in. We’ll make it look fresh again.

Watch Battery Replacement

Battery not lasting on your watch? We replace it same day in most cases.

iPad Repair

iPad not charging, touch issue, or acting weird? We fix all models.

iPad Screen Repair in Chicago

If your screen cracked or lines show up, we’ll make it smooth again.

Apple MacBook Screen Repair

Screen lines, dead pixels, or no display? We do Apple MacBook screen repair fast and neat.

Cell Phone Repair Near Me

iPhones, Androids, Samsung—we repair all phones right here in Chicago.

No matter what device breaks, Cell N Comp Repairs is the go-to shop. We take care of your tech so you don’t stress.

Why Locals Choose Cell N Comp Repairs in Chicago?

We keep it simple, clear, and honest. Here’s why customers across Chicago like us:

Quick and neat repairs

Fair prices—no tricks or hidden fees

We explain everything in easy words

Great with Apple and all major tech brands

Local team who really care about your device

Our shop handles MacBook Pro repair in Chicago daily, and we know exactly what each model needs. Plus, we treat every device like it’s our own.

Real Talk – Repair or Replace?

So what’s better? Repair or replace?

The truth: If your MacBook is under 5–6 years old and the issue is fixable, repair is the smarter move. You save cash, save your data, and save the hassle.

But if your Mac is too old or repair price is too close to new, maybe it’s time to move on.

Ready to Fix Your Device?

Fixing your device can be simple. From MacBooks to iPads to watches, our team at Cell N Comp Repairs is always ready.

Book your repair at: www.cellncomprepairs.com

Let us bring your tech back to life, one repair at a time.

FAQs – You Asked, We Answered

How long MacBook Pro repair usually take?

Most are done within 1–3 business days. Some fixes even faster.

Do I need to backup before repair?

We try to save your data, but yes, backup is always a safe idea.

Can you replace battery on Apple Watch?

Yes, we offer watch battery replacement for all Apple Watch models.

Do you fix older iPads?

Yes, we fix all models, including older ones. We’re known for iPad repair and iPad screen repair in Chicago.

What phones do you fix?

iPhones, Samsung, Motorola, and more. We’re your local spot for cell phone repair near me in Chicago.

Final Words

Repair vs. replacement—it depends on the problem, age, and your needs. But for most folks, repair works great if the device still has life left. And the best part? Repairs are often faster and cheaper than you expect.

Whether it's your MacBook Pro, iPad, Apple Watch, or phone, let Cell N Comp Repairs be your first stop in Chicago.

📍 Visit us or book online at: https://maps.app.goo.gl/axgvCNGPHdK7ZMHJ8

[mogulinterior]

How to Turn Almost Any Space Into a Guest Room with Carved Doors

Transforming an ordinary space into a functional and stylish guest room doesn’t require a major renovation. With a little creativity and the right design elements, you can create a welcoming retreat for visitors in no time. One versatile and unexpected tool for this transformation is the carved door. These stunning pieces of art can be repurposed in a variety of ways to bring both beauty and functionality to your space.

1. The Appeal of Carved Doors

Carved doors, often rich in texture, intricate detailing, and cultural significance, are far more than simple architectural elements. They serve as a statement piece, infusing your space with character and charm. Whether they’re traditional designs from Rajasthan, intricate Moroccan panels, or vintage colonial doors, their versatility and beauty make them ideal for transforming spaces.

Find us on Chairish at mogulinterior

2. Room Divider for Privacy

A carved door can be repurposed as a room divider to create a defined guest space in an open-concept area. Attach hinges to connect multiple doors or panels, creating a foldable screen. Not only does this provide privacy for your guests, but it also introduces a touch of sophistication and visual intrigue.

3. A Headboard with Flair

Turn a carved door into a one-of-a-kind headboard for a daybed or futon that doubles as a guest bed. Secure the door to the wall or directly behind the bed to create an instant focal point. The texture and artistry of the door add depth and character to the room, elevating the design.

4. Mounted Wall Art

If space is tight, consider mounting a carved door as wall art. Position it strategically to act as a decorative backdrop or statement piece. This is a great way to highlight the craftsmanship of the door while keeping the floor space clear for other essentials, such as a foldable bed or seating.

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5. Sliding Barn Door for Dual Purposes

Replace a traditional door with a sliding barndoor and carved door. This not only saves space but also adds a functional and elegant element to the room. Use the carved door to separate the guest room from the rest of the house, giving it a more secluded and cozy feel.

6. Upcycled Furniture and Storage

Carved doors can also be transformed into practical furniture pieces. Use them as tabletops, cupboard doors, or even as the facade for a murphy bed. These upcycled creations blend artistry and utility, allowing you to maximize space while staying true to a cohesive design theme.

7. Layering Fabrics and Textures

Enhance the carved door’s impact by layering it with complementary textures and fabrics. Use soft, flowing drapes, cozy throws, and plush pillows in colors and patterns that match the door’s design. This creates a harmonious and inviting space for your guests.

8. Ambient Lighting for Added Warmth

Pair carved doors with ambient lighting to enhance their intricate details. Install sconces, string lights, or even floor lamps that cast gentle shadows on the carvings, highlighting their depth and texture. The interplay of light and shadow can turn your guest space into an enchanting retreat.

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9. Functional Additions

Complete your guest room setup with thoughtful touches like a small side table, a tray with essentials, and a comfortable chair. These elements, combined with the carved door centerpiece, make the space functional and welcoming.

Final Thoughts

Carved doors offer a unique opportunity to transform a space without extensive renovations. Their artistic craftsmanship, combined with practical versatility, makes them an excellent choice for turning any area into a stylish guest room. Whether you repurpose them as a divider, headboard, or wall art, these doors can elevate your interior design while ensuring your guests feel at home.

ADDRESS

MOGUL INTERIOR 238 W MARVIN AVE, UNIT 102

LONGWOOD, FL 32750

Email : mogulinterior@aol.com

Phone : 239-603-7777

Warehouse Hours : Mon-Sat (By Appintment) (11:00AM - 6:00 PM)

WWW.MOGULINTERIOR.COM

[15interior]

Budget-Friendly Home Renovation Ideas Using Plywood

Home renovations don’t have to break the bank. Plywood, often overlooked, is a versatile and cost-effective material that can transform your space without requiring a huge investment. From furniture upgrades to clever design features, here are some budget-friendly renovation ideas using plywood.

1. DIY Plywood Furniture

Plywood is an excellent choice for DIY furniture projects. It’s sturdy, easy to work with, and relatively inexpensive. Consider building:

Bookshelves: Simple and modern, plywood bookshelves can be customized to fit any space. Cut and assemble the pieces yourself for a custom look.

Coffee Tables: With a bit of creativity, you can craft a sleek, minimalist coffee table. Use plywood for the top and consider metal or wooden legs for a stylish contrast.

Bed Frames: Create a contemporary platform bed or a sturdy base with plywood. It’s a great way to achieve a high-end look without the high-end price.

2. Accent Walls and Panels

Transform a plain wall with plywood panels or an accent wall. Plywood can be stained, painted, or left natural to suit your style:

Plywood Panels: Install large plywood panels for a sleek, modern look. This can be especially striking in living rooms or bedrooms.

Shiplap Effect: For a farmhouse feel, cut plywood into shiplap-style planks and apply them to your wall. Paint or stain them for a customized look.

3. Custom Storage Solutions

Plywood is great for creating custom storage solutions that fit your specific needs:

Cabinets and Shelving: Build custom cabinets or floating shelves for your kitchen, bathroom, or garage. Plywood is strong and can handle heavy loads when properly supported.

Closet Organizers: Use plywood to create modular closet organizers that can be customized to fit your wardrobe.

4. Creative Plywood Wall Art

Add a personal touch to your home with DIY plywood wall art:

Geometric Shapes: Cut plywood into geometric shapes and paint them for a modern, abstract piece.

Stenciled Designs: Use stencils to create intricate designs on plywood panels. Frame them or hang them directly on the wall.

5. Plywood Backsplashes

In areas like the kitchen or bathroom, a plywood backsplash can add a unique touch:

Painted or Stained Backsplash: Choose a bold color or stain to make your backsplash stand out.

Textured Backsplash: Experiment with different textures, like a rough-hewn or sanded finish, to add depth and interest.

6. Plywood Cabinet Fronts

Give your kitchen or bathroom cabinets a fresh look by replacing the fronts with plywood panels:

Modern Look: Sand and paint the plywood for a sleek, modern appearance.

Natural Finish: For a more rustic look, leave the plywood unfinished or apply a clear coat to highlight its natural beauty.

7. Plywood Flooring

For a unique flooring option, consider using plywood:

Painted Plywood Floors: Paint plywood floors in a color or pattern that complements your décor.

Stained Plywood Floors: Stain the plywood for a rich, warm look. Be sure to seal it properly to protect against wear and moisture.

8. Plywood Room Dividers

Create functional and stylish room dividers with plywood:

Sliding Panels: Install sliding plywood panels to separate spaces without the need for permanent walls.

Foldable Screens: Design a foldable screen with plywood that can be moved or adjusted as needed.

Tips for Working with Plywood

Quality Matters: Choose high-quality plywood to ensure durability and a smooth finish.

Preparation: Sand and seal plywood properly to avoid splinters and to achieve a polished look.

Tools and Safety: Use appropriate tools and safety equipment when cutting and working with plywood.

With its affordability and versatility, plywood is a fantastic option for budget-friendly home renovations. Whether you're crafting furniture, updating walls, or creating unique design features, plywood can help you achieve a stylish and functional home without overspending. So grab your tools and get started on your next project!

Hardware shop in surat, Plywood Shop in surat

[bettery-machine]

Cutting-Edge Welding and Inspection System

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Technical Parameters

3. Efficient Welding and Inspection

4. Ease of Operation and Maintenance

5. Application Scenarios

6. Energy-Saving and Environmental Design

7. Conclusion

Introduction

Are you searching for an advanced device that enhances production efficiency and ensures welding quality? The fully automatic battery CNC through-wall welding inspection machine is your ideal choice. This article will provide a detailed overview of the machine’s technical parameters and application advantages.

Technical Parameters

1. Welding Current Range: 50A-200A, suitable for various thicknesses and materials of battery components.

2. Welding Time: 0.1s-10s, adjustable according to different needs.

3. Welding Accuracy: ±0.01mm, ensuring precise consistency for each weld point.

4. Inspection Accuracy: 0.02mm, capable of detecting minute welding defects.

5. Production Efficiency: Up to 300 pieces/hour, significantly improving production efficiency.

6. Operation Interface: 10-inch touch screen, user-friendly and intuitive.

7. Automation Level: 100% automation, eliminating the need for manual intervention.

8. Device Dimensions: L2000mm x W1500mm x H1800mm, adaptable to various production line layouts.

9. Power Requirement: AC 380V 50Hz, compliant with international power standards.

Efficient Welding and Inspection

The fully automatic battery CNC through-wall welding inspection machine utilizes advanced numerical control welding technology, allowing precise control of welding current and time to ensure welding quality. Equipped with high-definition cameras and ultrasonic inspection systems, it monitors welding quality in real-time and detects any minor defects.

Ease of Operation and Maintenance

The device features a 10-inch touch screen interface for easy parameter setting and adjustment. The system includes self-diagnostic functions to automatically detect the equipment's status and prompt necessary maintenance, reducing manual intervention. The modular design facilitates easy replacement and maintenance of components, minimizing downtime.

Application Scenarios

This machine is widely applicable in various battery manufacturing scenarios, including electric vehicle batteries, consumer electronics batteries, energy storage system batteries, medical device batteries, and industrial automation device batteries. Its efficiency and high-quality assurance make it an ideal choice for multiple industries.

Energy-Saving and Environmental Design

The machine’s energy-saving design optimizes welding and inspection processes to reduce power consumption. By minimizing waste generation and lowering electricity usage, the device not only meets environmental standards but also helps businesses save on production costs.

Conclusion

The fully automatic battery CNC through-wall welding inspection machine, with its excellent technical parameters, efficient welding and inspection capabilities, ease of operation and maintenance, broad application range, and energy-saving design, is an ideal choice for the battery manufacturing industry. Contact us now to learn more about the product and make your production more efficient and reliable!

[hong-kong-art-man]

Streets In Hong Kong Are Quiet: Why Online Shopping Like Taobao May Uproot More Street Shops?

Shopping is an appeal to innate human rapture. New ideas rise and old shops fall, but we still shop.

People used to shop in stores; swiping through hangers or caressing items on supermarket shelves. Now, products are mere digital images that you can scroll past. You can log on to an online shopping platform from anywhere and order even chicken and papaya. Shopping online is all about ticking boxes: species, colour, size, number and grade of quality which are all options appearing on the screen of your computer or mobile phone, with no need for personal touch. It is a mechanical process but worth on its own.

Online shopping can never completely replace some shops especially those restaurants where romantic ambience is the reason for enjoyment. It will not replace shops selling luxury goods where you want to be treated like a VIP. For shops which are ordinary and cannot offer competitive prices of their products, it is hard to see how they will be able to battle against their online counterparts. At the end, only the convenient shops satisfying a customer’s daily needs may survive. This is why I still frequent 7-Eleven or Circle K. In a competition, there are always winners and losers. Losers will disappear.

In Hong Kong, Taobao(淘寶) is the market king. It is an online shopping platform headquartered in Hangzhou(杭州), China and owned by Alibaba which at first targeted at a ‘B2B’(business-to-business) and later at a ‘B2C’(business-to-customer) operating model. Taobao is almost the most-visited website for shopping among the Chinese.

Few years ago, I resisted but now Taobao is too hard to resist for me.

My friends said the following: “China used to produce low-cost and low-performing goods, and the focus, in recent years, has shifted to high-quality goods. The trick is to look for the mid-range prices and you seldom get disappointed.” “Most shops in Hong Kong typically close at 7pm. With the rise of e-commerce, I can buy what I want from the comfort of my own home, any time of day or night.” “Buying something online is often cheaper and delivery is much faster, usually within 1-3 business days.” “My God! One of the benefits of online shopping is that specialty items, hard-to-find products and almost everything under the sun particularly out-of-stock goods can be found on the internet.” “Shoppers’ comments are available on Taobao and I can assess at once which is good and what is bad. I can also know how many items that the manufacturer had sold. I just wisely follow the crowd.”

Chinese people are very creative and this is why you will be amazed by the innovative products which emerge from Taobao every day: curtains without drilling nails, bedside tables with different lighting ideas, fake muscle T shirts which can make you look like having a six-pack abs, slippers which feel like jelly, ladders that can be turned into a chair and more…

Some Taobao sellers hire Hong Kong transportation companies to take back the goods back to the Chinese Mainland if you are not happy with the quality that you have bought. Some Mainland suppliers display their samples in Hong Kong and let you go to check out the grade. Some house fittings manufacturers employ local Hong Kong workers to provide installation services at your home. 

Taobao is a wonderland where you can pay no mind—just relax, enjoy and spend your money in full swing.

Online retailers such as Taobao, Amazon, Carousell, eBay and Tmall are popular in Hong Kong and are quietly forcing many small street shops to close down. Land and labour in Hong Kong are expensive. This is why the prices of products in physical shops with the same quality can be 3 or 4 times more. Only those who are not accustomed to ‘cyber shopping’ or who insist on personalized encounter still do in-store shopping. 

The big challenge to cyber shopping is the cost of ‘e-commerce logistics’ which term refers to the movement of goods in online retail. It involves managing inventory, order fulfilment, warehousing, transportation and delivery. The latter two are not cheap. Often, transportation charges are equal to the price of a product and you are forced to buy many other things at the same time in order to justify delivery charges. It encourages ‘prodigal spending’.

It is also a pity that most e-commerce sites are just a product list. They do not have stories or human inspiration. They do not tell you why the products are made or who developed the idea behind. 

My life has changed. I seldom go out for aimless shopping. I simply wait happily for an order to show up at my door every single day. It is always like Christmas! Online shopping wins because I can do it in bed or even in my toilet! Carrying stuff which is a kind of heavy lifting can cause a problem to us after a certain age. There is already too much stuff to carry around like cellphone, wallet, keys and a briefcase when we go home. Grocery bags surely piss us off now!

Great shopping is when laziness finds respectability.

Maurice Lee

Chinese Version 中文版: https://www.patreon.com/posts/you-yi-zhong-qu-104771940?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Online Shopping Fraud https://youtu.be/gQBNkKdecCc?si=YPwHvFlgDNDwhmil  Acknowledgement-HK Police

Even kids do online shopping https://youtu.be/9PtwmK36Of8?si=lQfOAN5PaFF2T0bN  Acknowledgement – RTHK

Development of online shopping in HK https://youtu.be/pbGU74aURvg?si=ezNc59RssgZcoh-r  Acknowledgement – China Daily Asia